In recent weeks, the Nigerian government has found itself at the center of a significant controversy regarding the detention of minors. Over forty children were arrested during protests that erupted from August 1 to 10, fueled by widespread discontent over bad governance and rampant hunger in the country. Their treatment raises profound questions about the principles of democracy and human rights in Nigeria.
Following global outcry over the children’s appearance in court after being held for over 90 days, President Bola Tinubu swiftly ordered their release. This reaction, however, appears more a response to public pressure than a genuine commitment to justice or democracy.
The minors were arrested on August 2, alongside adults, and were subsequently incarcerated in various prison facilities across the country. Disturbingly, some of these children were locked up with hardened criminals, a situation that is not only alarming but also reflects a fundamental failure in the legal system.
Prominent human rights activists, including Femi Falana, Effiong Inibehe, and Deji Adeyanju, tirelessly fought for the children’s release. Their efforts spanned over three months, during which the children were subjected to appalling conditions, exacerbated by the serious charges levied against them, including treason, arson, and looting.
The accusations against these minors—that they attempted to overthrow the government while carrying the flag of Russia—are both extreme and unfounded. Such charges indicate a troubling willingness to vilify young citizens who merely expressed their dissatisfaction with the state of the nation.
The children’s appearance in court starkly illustrated their plight; many looked malnourished, and some fainted during proceedings. This visual evidence of their mistreatment sparked further outrage, not just within Nigeria, but across the globe, calling into question the government’s commitment to democratic ideals.
Critics argue that the detention of these minors contradicts Tinubu’s claims of being a democrat. If the president truly stands for democracy, why were these children arrested in the first place? Their detention seems to reflect a broader trend of stifling dissent rather than upholding constitutional rights.
The hypocrisy of the situation lies in the fact that their eventual release was prompted by public condemnation rather than a principled stance from the government. It raises crucial questions: Why were these children not immediately recognized as minors? Why were they not placed in appropriate facilities that cater to their age group?
Moreover, the legal framework in Nigeria does not support the detention of children in adult facilities. The failure to properly profile those arrested to ascertain their ages is a glaring oversight. It points to a systemic problem within law enforcement and the judicial system.
Furthermore, the law stipulates that no individual should be held for more than 48 hours without trial. The prolonged detention of these children blatantly violates this principle, calling into question the legality of their treatment.
Tinubu’s administration must do more than simply release the minors; it must also address the underlying issues that led to their arrest. The government must commit to protecting the rights of all citizens, especially the most vulnerable, including children.
The events surrounding the detention of these protesting minors highlight a critical crossroads for Nigeria. The nation must decide whether it will uphold democratic values or continue down a path of authoritarianism.
If the government can arrest and detain children for expressing their views, it sends a chilling message to all citizens about the risks of dissent. This is a dangerous precedent that could lead to further erosion of civil liberties.
As a journalist, I believe it is imperative that we hold those in power accountable. The voices of the marginalized, particularly children, must be amplified rather than silenced. We must advocate for a system that respects and protects the rights of every individual.
In conclusion, the hypocrisy surrounding the detention and subsequent release of these children must not be overlooked. It is a clarion call for all Nigerians to demand genuine accountability and a commitment to upholding the principles of democracy that are essential for a just society.
Deacon Darlington Okpebholo Ray, a Journalist, Publisher/Editor-In-Chief of Truth Live News, PDP Chieftain and Socio-political rights advocate, writes from London, United Kingdom.